---
title: Life insurance over 80: What You Need and Why | Coverfolk
url: https://coverfolk.com/for/over-80
updated: 2026-10-08
---

# Life insurance over 80

You can still get life insurance after 80, but choices are fewer and prices are higher.

[How much do I need?](/calculator)

Updated October 8, 20263 sources[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Small final expense whole life is the most common choice over 80. Answer health questions if you can, because guaranteed issue costs more and has a wait.

**$98 a month**Price for $10,000 of whole life for an 80 year old woman, non tobacco (Choice Mutual, rates valid as of March 9, 2026). Men: $134.[Source: Choice Mutual, $10,000 Life Insurance Rates](https://choicemutual.com/life-insurance-cost/10000/)

Prices rise a lot at this age. Choice Mutual lists $10,000 of whole life at $98 a month for an 80 year old woman and $134 for a man. That is non tobacco, rates valid as of March 9, 2026.

Fewer plans sell to new buyers at this age. Choice Mutual's $10,000 whole life table stops at age 89.

Guaranteed issue plans skip health questions but often have a waiting period. A Missouri rule says a graded policy for people 76 and up cannot be issued there unless the first year benefit is at least 50% of the full amount.

## Tips that help

* Keep the amount small so the price stays affordable.
* Ask if the full benefit starts on day one or after a wait.
* Make sure you can keep paying. If you stop, coverage can end.
* Compare at least two quotes.
* Put your plan in writing for your family.

## Coverage that fits

[**Final expense: Small whole life plans that pay for a funeral and last bills.**](/coverage/final-expense)[**Whole life: Coverage that lasts your whole life and builds cash value.**](/coverage/whole-life)[**No exam: Many plans let you skip the needles and the nurse visit.**](/coverage/no-exam)

## Common questions

Is it worth it at 80?

It can be if your family would pay for your funeral. Compare the price to what you could save instead.

What if I have health problems?

Guaranteed issue asks no health questions. It costs more. Choice Mutual lists $10,000 at $127 a month for an 80 year old woman with Mutual of Omaha's plan.

Can I return it if I change my mind?

Most policies have a free look period. The NAIC says it is usually about 10 days after you get the policy.

## Sources

1. [Choice Mutual, $10,000 Life Insurance Rates](https://choicemutual.com/life-insurance-cost/10000/)
2. [Missouri rule 20 CSR 400-1.040, Policies Providing Graded Death Benefits (Cornell LII)](https://law.cornell.edu/regulations/missouri/20-CSR-400-1-040)
3. [NAIC, Life Insurance Buyer's Guide (2026)](https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/publication-lig-lp-consumer-life.pdf)